Ian Carter Designs specializes in vintage costume recreation and historical clothing reproduction in Los Angeles, creating museum-quality period garments for film productions, television sets, theatrical performances, and discerning personal clients. With over 40 years of experience in period-accurate garment construction, we bring historical fashion to life with meticulous attention to detail, authentic fabrics, and traditional tailoring techniques.
What is Vintage Costume Recreation?
Vintage costume recreation (also called historical costume reproduction or period clothing recreation) is the art of precisely replicating garments from specific historical eras. Unlike costume rentals or mass-produced historical “costumes,” our vintage recreations are custom-made, period-accurate reproductions built using authentic construction methods, historically appropriate fabrics, and careful research into the original garments.
Whether you need a Jackie Kennedy coat from the 1960s, a flapper dress from the 1920s, Victorian-era gowns, or any other period costume, Ian Carter Designs creates historically accurate recreations that stand up to close camera scrutiny and museum-quality inspection.
Our Vintage Recreation Services
Film & Television Production
Hollywood productions demand historically accurate costumes that photograph beautifully and withstand the rigors of filming. We create vintage costume recreations for:
- Period films requiring era-specific wardrobes
- Television shows set in historical periods
- Biopics requiring exact replicas of famous garments
- Commercials featuring vintage aesthetics
- Music videos with period settings
Our film period costume recreations have appeared in major motion pictures including period pieces, biographical films, and historical dramas throughout Ian’s 40+ year career in Hollywood.
Personal Vintage Costume Recreations
Not every vintage cosrtume recreation is for a film set. We also create custom historical clothing reproductions for clients who want:
- Wedding dresses inspired by or replicated from vintage designs
- Special event attire recreated from historical photographs
- Family heirloom recreations – reproducing treasured garments from old family photos
- Historical society displays – museum-quality reproductions for exhibitions
- Themed events – period-accurate costumes for galas, parties, or performances
- Personal wardrobe pieces inspired by vintage fashion icons
Museum & Exhibition Quality
Our commitment to historical accuracy means our vintage recreations meet museum standards for:
- Period-appropriate fabric selection
- Authentic construction techniques (hand-stitching where historically accurate)
- Correct undergarment structures when needed
- Era-specific finishing details
- Proper silhouette and proportions for each time period
The Vintage Costume Recreation Process
1. Research & Consultation
Every vintage recreation project begins with thorough research. We examine:
- Historical photographs or paintings
- Museum archives and collections
- Period fashion plates and illustrations
- Original garments when available
- Film stills or reference images
During consultation, we discuss the specific era, occasion, and use of the garment to ensure historically appropriate choices for your project.
2. Fabric Sourcing
Authentic vintage recreation requires period-appropriate (or convincingly similar) fabrics:
- Natural fibers matching historical textiles (silk, wool, cotton, linen)
- Vintage deadstock fabrics when available
- Modern equivalents that match period weight, drape, and appearance
- Specialty weaves recreating historical textile patterns
- Period-accurate trims including buttons, lace, ribbons, and notions
3. Pattern Making
We create patterns using:
- Historical pattern archives from the specific era
- Draping techniques appropriate to the period
- Vintage pattern collections dating to the correct time period
- Custom drafting based on historical research and modern fit requirements
4. Construction
Our construction methods honor historical techniques while ensuring durability:
- Hand-stitching where period-appropriate
- Correct seam finishes for the era
- Authentic closure methods (hook-and-eye, buttons, lacing, zippers when period-accurate)
- Proper interfacing and structure
- Period-accurate finishing techniques
- Quality craftsmanship that meets film and television standards
5. Fitting & Refinement
Multiple fittings ensure the vintage recreation fits perfectly while maintaining historically accurate silhouettes. This is especially important for film and television work where a period costume must fit modern bodies while appearing period-authentic on camera.
Notable Vintage Recreation Projects
Ike Turner Period Costumes for “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1993)
Ian Carter Designs created multiple vintage costume recreations of Ike Turner’s performance and personal wardrobes for the critically acclaimed 1993 biographical film “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” starring Laurence Fishburne as Ike Turner and Angela Bassett as Tina Turner. These period-accurate costumes appeared throughout the film’s iconic “Proud Mary” touring montage sequences showing the Ike & Tina Turner Revue performing from city to city during the 1960s and early 1970s.
The film required meticulous recreation of men’s fashion spanning nearly three decades – from the late 1950s through the early 1980s – with particular attention to the flashy, stylish suits that Ike Turner wore as a bandleader and performer during the height of his career. Ian’s costume recreations for Laurence Fishburne captured the evolution of Ike Turner’s distinctive style throughout different eras of his performing career.
Period Accuracy and Historical Research:
Creating vintage costumes for a biographical film demands exceptional historical accuracy, as the clothing must withstand close-up camera scrutiny while authentically representing specific time periods. Ian researched archival photographs and performance footage of the real Ike Turner to ensure accurate recreation of:
- 1950s-60s Stage Suits: Sharp, tailored suits in bold colors characteristic of R&B performers of the era, featuring narrow lapels, fitted cuts, and the clean lines popular in early rock and roll fashion
- Performance Wardrobe Details: Matching shirts, ties, and accessories that reflected Ike Turner’s attention to style as a bandleader
- Fabric Selection: Period-appropriate materials including wool, gabardine, and sharkskin fabrics popular in mid-century men’s suiting
- Construction Techniques: Authentic 1960s tailoring methods to achieve the proper fit and silhouette on camera
- Color Coordination: Vibrant colors and patterns that looked spectacular under stage lighting and translated well to film
Film Production Demands:
Costume recreation for major Hollywood productions requires garments that meet rigorous standards beyond historical accuracy. Ian’s Ike Turner costumes had to:
- Withstand multiple takes and extended filming schedules
- Look perfect under various lighting conditions (stage lights, natural light, interior scenes)
- Allow for actor movement during performance sequences
- Maintain their appearance through cleaning and pressing between scenes
- Function as practical wardrobe for long shooting days
The Montage Sequences:
The film’s touring montage scenes – showing the Ike & Tina Turner Revue performing in venues across the country – required multiple costume changes to represent different time periods and performance contexts. Ian’s recreations helped establish the visual progression of Ike Turner’s career, from small club performances to larger venues, with his wardrobe becoming progressively more sophisticated and flamboyant as success grew.
Critics and audiences praised the film’s attention to period detail, with the costume and set design receiving particular recognition for authentically capturing the look and feel of the 1960s music scene. The costumes contributed to the film’s visual storytelling, helping distinguish different eras in the Turners’ career while maintaining the authentic aesthetic of mid-century R&B and soul music culture.
Impact and Recognition:
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” received widespread critical acclaim, earning a 97% approval rating and multiple award nominations including Academy Award nominations for both Laurence Fishburne (Best Actor) and Angela Bassett (Best Actress). The film’s success and attention to period authenticity – including Ian Carter’s vintage costume recreations – helped establish new standards for biographical film costume design.
The film’s costume work demonstrates Ian Carter Designs’ expertise in:
- Large-scale film production wardrobe
- Multi-era period costume recreation
- Men’s vintage tailoring and suiting
- Performance costume construction
- Historical research and authenticity
- Meeting Hollywood production standards
This major film credit exemplifies the level of craftsmanship and historical accuracy that Ian Carter Designs brings to every vintage recreation project, whether for Hollywood productions or personal clients seeking museum-quality period garments.
Period Costume Examples by Era
Our vintage recreation portfolio spans multiple historical periods:
1920s – The Jazz Age
- Flapper dresses with Art Deco beading
- Drop-waist silhouettes
- Cloche hats and period accessories
- Charleston-style performance costumes
1930s-40s – Golden Age Hollywood
- Bias-cut evening gowns
- Wartime utility suits
- Tailored day dresses
- Victory roll hairstyle-appropriate hats
1950s – Post-War Elegance
- Full-skirted dresses with petticoats
- Pencil skirts and fitted cardigans
- Tailored suits with nipped waists
- Poodle skirts and saddle shoes ensembles
1960s – Mod & Jackie O Era
- Jackie Kennedy-inspired suits and coats
- Mod shift dresses
- Early hippie fashion
- Go-go boots and mini skirt ensembles
1970s – Disco & Bohemian
- Disco glamour with sequins and metallics
- Bohemian maxi dresses
- Wide-leg pantsuits
- Platform shoes and bell-bottoms
Victorian Era (1837-1901)
- Bustles and crinolines
- Corsets and proper understructures
- Elaborate day dresses with multiple layers
- Morning coats and formal menswear
Edwardian Era (1901-1910)
- S-bend corsets
- Gibson Girl blouses and skirts
- Elaborate hats with plumes
- Lace and high-neck details
Why Choose Ian Carter Designs for Vintage Recreations?
40+ Years of Professional Experience
Ian Carter has spent over four decades perfecting the art of garment construction, with extensive experience in:
- Period costume design and construction for major Hollywood films
- Historical pattern making and adaptation
- Authentic tailoring techniques from multiple eras
- Film and television wardrobe standards
- Working with A-list celebrities and major productions
IATSE Local 705 Member
As a proud member of IATSE Local 705 (Motion Picture Costumers), Ian Carter meets the highest professional standards in costume construction and design. This membership represents recognition by Hollywood’s elite costume professionals.
Attention to Historical Detail
We don’t just make “old-looking” costumes – we create historically accurate reproductions that:
- Respect the construction methods of the era
- Use appropriate fabrics and notions matching the period
- Maintain correct silhouettes and proportions
- Include proper understructures when needed (corsets, petticoats, padding)
- Feature period-accurate closures and finishing
Film-Quality Construction
Whether for a Hollywood production or a personal project, every vintage recreation receives the same meticulous craftsmanship that withstands:
- Close camera scrutiny in 4K and HD filming
- Multiple wearings and costume changes
- Professional cleaning and maintenance
- Long-term preservation and storage
- The demands of performance and movement
Los Angeles Based, Serving Nationwide
Located in Los Angeles – the heart of the film and television industry – Ian Carter Designs serves clients throughout California and nationwide. Our proximity to Hollywood studios, costume houses, and fabric suppliers ensures access to the best resources for vintage recreation projects.
Pricing for Vintage Costume Recreation
Vintage recreation pricing varies based on several factors:
- Complexity of the garment – Simple 1950s dress vs. elaborate Victorian gown with multiple layers
- Fabric requirements – Availability and cost of period-appropriate materials
- Construction time – Degree of hand-finishing required vs. machine construction
- Research required – Availability of historical references and documentation
- Quantity – Single piece vs. multiple garments for productions
- Timeline – Standard timeline vs. rush production schedules
General Price Ranges:
- Simple vintage dress (1950s-60s style): $800-$1,500
- Complex period gown (Victorian, Edwardian with understructures): $2,000-$5,000+
- Men’s period suit with vest and accessories: $1,200-$2,500
- Tailored coat or jacket (like the Jackie O coat): $1,500-$3,000
- Complete ensemble with all accessories and undergarments: $2,500-$7,500+
- Film/TV production projects: Custom quotes based on quantity, complexity, and deadline
Contact us for a detailed quote based on your specific vintage recreation needs.
Vintage Recreation Timeline
Plan ahead for the best results – historical accuracy takes time:
- Initial Consultation & Research: 1-2 weeks for research and fabric sourcing
- Pattern Making: 1-2 weeks for drafting or adapting historical patterns
- Fabric Acquisition: 1-3 weeks depending on specialty fabric availability
- First Fitting: After initial construction (2-3 weeks from pattern completion)
- Final Construction & Detailing: 2-4 weeks depending on complexity
- Final Fitting & Adjustments: 1 week
Total Timeline: 6-10 weeks for most vintage recreations
Rush projects: Available with additional fees for film and television production deadlines.
For major film productions or large orders, timelines can be adjusted to meet production schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Costume Recreation
Can you recreate a garment from just a photograph?
Yes! We regularly work from historical photographs, film stills, or paintings. The more reference images you can provide (front, back, side views, detail shots), the more accurate the recreation will be. We’re experienced at interpreting historical images and filling in construction details that aren’t visible in photos.
Do you use authentic vintage fabrics?
When possible, we source vintage deadstock fabrics or period-appropriate textiles. For most projects, we use modern fabrics that accurately match the weight, drape, and appearance of historical textiles while offering better durability and easier care. This is especially important for film and television work where costumes must withstand multiple wearings.
Can vintage recreations be machine-washed?
Most vintage recreations should be dry-cleaned or hand-washed, depending on the fabrics used. We provide detailed care instructions with each garment. For film and television productions, we can discuss appropriate cleaning methods that align with production schedules.
Do you recreate undergarments like corsets and crinolines?
Yes! Proper understructures are essential for historically accurate silhouettes. We can create period-appropriate undergarments including corsets, bustles, crinolines, petticoats, and padding. Many period gowns require these foundation garments to achieve the correct shape.
Can you work from garments in family photographs?
Absolutely. Family heirloom recreation is one of our specialties – we can recreate wedding dresses, military uniforms, special occasion garments, or everyday clothing from old family photos. This is a beautiful way to honor family history and preserve memories.
Do you rent vintage recreations?
No, all vintage recreations are custom-made for purchase. However, for film and television productions, we can discuss usage terms and rental arrangements for production-specific pieces.
How accurate are your vintage recreations?
Museum-quality accurate. We research construction methods, fabric choices, and design details specific to each era to ensure historical authenticity. Our recreations are suitable for museum exhibitions, historical documentaries, and major film productions.
Can you scale historical patterns to fit modern bodies?
Yes. We adapt historical patterns to fit modern sizing while maintaining period-accurate proportions and silhouettes. This is one of our specialties – making vintage styles work for contemporary body types while preserving historical authenticity.
Can you recreate Jackie Kennedy’s vintage coats and dresses?
Yes! We’ve successfully recreated pieces from Jackie Kennedy’s iconic 1960s wardrobe, including her elegant wool coats. Using historical photographs and period-accurate fabrics, we reproduce the clean lines, tailored fit, and sophisticated styling that defined her legendary fashion sense.
What’s the difference between a vintage recreation and a vintage-inspired piece?
A vintage recreation is an exact or near-exact replica of a specific historical garment, using period-accurate construction methods and materials. A vintage-inspired piece takes design elements from a historical era but adapts them for modern wear, often using contemporary construction and fabrics. We specialize in true vintage recreations with historical accuracy.
Can you recreate museum pieces like those in the Met’s collection?
Yes! We’ve successfully recreated multiple pieces from museum collections, including Jackie Kennedy’s pleated dress and wool coat from the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. Our recreations are so accurate they’re indistinguishable from the museum originals. Working from museum documentation and historical photographs, we reproduce the exact construction techniques, fabrics, and details that make these garments historically significant.
Contact Ian Carter Designs for Vintage Recreation Services
Ready to bring historical fashion to life? Whether you need period costumes for a film production, a vintage-inspired wedding dress, or a museum-quality reproduction of a historical garment from family photographs, Ian Carter Designs combines 40 years of Hollywood expertise with meticulous historical research.
Our Los Angeles studio has served major film and television productions, celebrity clients, and personal customers seeking the highest quality vintage costume recreation and historical clothing reproduction.
Call Ian Carter Designs:
Phone: 323-683-4754
Location: Los Angeles, California
Serving: Film and television productions, personal clients, and special projects nationwide
Member: IATSE Local 705 – Motion Picture Costumers
Schedule your vintage recreation consultation today and discover how Ian Carter Designs can bring your historical fashion vision to life with museum-quality craftsmanship and authentic period detail.
Whether recreating an iconic Jackie Kennedy coat, a Victorian ball gown, or a family heirloom from a treasured photograph, we deliver vintage costume recreation that honors history while meeting the demands of modern production and wear.